Lord Mayor backflips on promise of 50,000 free swimming lessons and $2 swims
The trial cost $26,000 to deliver and Reece said it was a “huge success” and increased visitation to the city’s pools.
“It’s clear this program is in high demand, and I want to see it expanded so more residents can benefit,” he said. “That’s thousands of Melburnians having happier, healthier summers because of an initiative here at town hall.”
Rudwan Yey and
Sihaam Deeq from Debney meadows Primary School swimming at the Carlton Baths in December. Credit: Simon Schluter
The council has budgeted $59,000 for the swimming lessons and reduced entry fee which includes a $25,000 revenue reduction for the two pools, Carlton Baths and North Melbourne Pool, and an additional $34,000 for staffing, cleaning and security.
The council did not provide any estimates as to how much the 50,000 free swimming lessons and $2 pool entry all year pledged by Reece would have cost.
Councillor Olivia Ball pushed to have the $2 entry offer limited to concession card holders, student card holders, families and children but this was rejected.
A report by Life Saving Australia cited by council found 104 people lost their lives to drowning this past summer, up 5 per cent from last summer and 14 per cent on the five-year average.
When asked about the impact of the reduction in the pledged swimming lessons and discount entry a spokesperson for Life Saving Victoria said every effort in the space had potential to save lives.
“Life Saving Victoria supports any initiative that improves access to swimming lessons and public pools, helping communities develop vital water safety skills,” they said.
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